Here’s How:
1. Decide if this is right for you
Review the investment you saw: Franchise fee (₹50k–₹2L), Store setup (₹1–2L), Security deposit (₹1–2L), Initial inventory (₹5–10L).
Check you can handle upfront cashflow and fast daily operations (high turnover, quick dispatch).
2. Research Blinkit’s franchise model
Visit Blinkit’s official partner/franchise page or search for “Blinkit franchise” (look for partner forms, contact emails).
Read franchise requirements, territory rules, and service-level expectations (delivery time, packing standards).
3. Prepare basic documents
Have scanned copies ready:
IDs (Aadhaar / Passport / Driver’s licence)
PAN card (business or personal)
Proof of address (owner + store)
GST registration (if required) — you can apply later but check rules early
Bank account details and cancelled cheque
Business plan / brief (1 page) explaining location, experience, and funding
4. Choose location and space
Pick a high-demand residential area with many apartments and office clusters.
Dark stores are compact: a small commercial unit or shop near dense housing works best.
Consider delivery radius and traffic — aim for quick reach to customers.
5. Contact Blinkit (apply)
Fill Blinkit’s partner/franchise application or email their franchise/business development team.
In your message: introduce yourself, mention chosen location, attach docs, state funding readiness (use the investment numbers).
Ask for next steps and a point of contact.
Applying from website is also possible
6. Negotiate and review terms
If Blinkit shows interest they’ll share an agreement (franchise/partner/merchant).
Carefully review: fees, deposit terms, exclusivity, minimum inventory levels, commission/charges, termination clauses.
Consider legal review for the contract if possible.
7. Arrange funding & sign
Arrange funds for franchise fee, setup, security deposit, and initial inventory.
Sign the agreement after you understand obligations and timelines.
8. Set up the store
Fit-out: shelving, refrigeration (if perishables), packing tables, lighting. Keep layout optimized for picking speed.
Tech: POS, smartphone/tablet, internet connection, power backup. Install Blinkit partner app/software as instructed.
Display clear SOPs for picking, packing, and returns.
9. Stock initial inventory
Buy SKUs Blinkit requires + popular local items. Use the initial inventory budget you saw (₹5–10L as a guide).
Focus on high-turn items and perishable rotation. Label and barcode SKUs if required.
10. Hire & train staff
Recruit staff for picking, packing, receiving, and a manager. Train them on:
Fast picking methods, packing standards, hygiene, and customer cancellation handling.
How to use Blinkit’s partner app and handle returns/refunds.
11. Soft launch & integrate
Coordinate with Blinkit to go live on their platform.
Do a soft launch (limited hours/orders) to test workflows, delivery partners, and inventory accuracy.
Fix issues, retrain staff, and optimize layout based on real orders.
12. Operate, monitor & scale
Track key metrics: order fulfillment time, stockouts, inventory turnover, returns, customer ratings.
Keep buffer stock for top sellers and weekly reorders.
Use Blinkit dashboards (if provided) to analyze sales and reorder patterns.
Once stable, consider expanding SKUs, increasing zone coverage, or opening additional stores.
Practical tips & risks
Keep strong cash reserves for inventory and returns.
Delivery speed and low errors are what make or break these businesses. Invest in staff training and good packing.
Monitor expiry/prices closely — perishable waste reduces margins.
Read contract fine print on commissions and penalties (cancellations, late dispatches).
